The Velvet Glove is now open in Darlinghurst, bringing a new take on refined yet accessible dining.

Blending the feel of a private club with an open-door policy, the venue ditches traditional hospitality norms—no seating times, no tipping, just quality service.

Art plays a central role, with works inspired by Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Monet lining the space. Even the bathrooms double as immersive art installations, featuring references to The Birth of Venus and Judith and the Head of Holofernes.

Hospitality veteran Hayley Gooley leads the venue, drawing on years of experience managing ski resort chalets and dining spaces. Working with consultant Belinda Cendron, she has crafted a space that balances old-world elegance with a relaxed, modern edge. Italian marble and handcrafted Greek bar stools are just a few of the considered design details.

The menu is straight to the point—quality ingredients, precise execution. Think black angus eye fillet with blistered vine cherry tomatoes or strawberry foie gras with poached strawberries and barrel-aged balsamic. A bar menu offers bites like porcini, spinach, and rice croquettes, alongside tuna sashimi with finger lime pearls.

The drinks list is just as sharp, with a mix of Australian and European wines and a cocktail menu featuring the iron fist (Gospel Solera Rye Whisky, absinthe, mandarin liqueur) and silk stocking (Belvedere Vodka, quince liqueur, spiced blood orange, 24K gold leaf).

With a focus on detail and service without the fuss, The Velvet Glove is setting a new standard for dining in Sydney.